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Hakka vs.Milk Collector: What New Mums Need to Know in the Early Days of Breastfeeding

If you’re about to welcome your baby or have just started your breastfeeding journey, you’ve probably heard of the Hakka pump or breast milk collectors. Both can be incredibly useful tools, however, using them at the wrong time, or in the wrong way, can impact your milk supply, feeding comfort, and your baby’s feeding rhythm.

As a breastfeeding coach and McTimoney chiropractor who supports new mums through home visits, and treats newborns with latch issues or body tension, I frequently see this. Many mothers are unknowingly overstimulating their supply in the early days, or feeling overwhelmed by leaks, nipple discomfort, or latch challenges, when often, a few simple adjustments can make a world of difference.

Here are the pros and cons of each option so you can make informed choices from the very start.

HAKKA –Pros and Cons

The Hakka is a silicone, suction-based milkcollector that gently draws milk from one breast while your baby feeds from theother.

✅ Pros:

• Creates gentle suction to help express milk passively while feeding.
• Can collect a surprising amount of milk, ideal if you're leaking a lot.
• Helpful for relieving early engorgement (without turning to an electric pump).

⚠️ Cons:

• Because it uses suction, it can increase tenderness or soreness on your nipple, it can trigger extra letdowns and overstimulate milk production.
• Risk of contributing to oversupply if used too often, especially in the early weeks.
• Can fall off easily if not held or positioned correctly, leading to spilled milk (literally!).

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My Professional Advice

In the early days postpartum, your body is still figuring out how much milk to make. Using a milk collector in this phase is usually the best choice if you're leaking, as it protects your supply from overstimulation.

Once your milk has settled and you are more comfortable with your feeding rhythm, a Hakka can be helpful for collecting a little extra without needing a full pump session. But use it mindfully and only when needed.

Need Breastfeeding Support?

Whether you’re expecting your baby soon or feeling overwhelmed in those first few weeks, you don’t need to figure this out alone.

I offer:

• Home visits to support your breastfeeding journey right from the start
• Prenatal breastfeeding empower hours to help you prepare and feel confident
• Chiropractic treatment for babies who may be struggling to latch due to body tension, birth trauma, or poor positioning

My aim is to empower you for a more comfortable, calm breastfeeding experience leaving you feeling confident and supported.

Reach out to book your home visit or breastfeeding session — You are not alone, I’m here to help.

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